Mount Lewotobi Laki, an active stratovolcano in Indonesia, erupted on March 20, 2025, sending ash clouds soaring up to 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) above its peak, according to volcanologists. Located in East Flores Regency, the eruption prompted authorities to raise the volcano's alert level from Level III (Alert) to Level IV (Awas), the highest warning status, signaling a significant upsurge in volcanic activity, as reported by the Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (PVMBG).
The eruption lasted approximately 11 minutes and nine seconds, beginning at 10:56 PM local time, and the ash cloud was described as grey to black with notable thickness. Initial evaluations revealed no immediate damage to nearby villages, yet the PVMBG issued warnings about the potential for a larger eruption. Officials noted that seismic activity, including volcanic and harmonic tremors, had intensified recently.
In response, authorities expanded the exclusion zone to 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) from the volcano's crater, creating a broader danger zone of approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers) in specific southwestern and northeastern sectors. The public was advised to steer clear of these areas due to the risks of a directed blast and possible lahars (volcanic mudflows) during heavy rains, particularly in regions like Dulipali, Padang Pasir, Nobo, Klatanlo, Hokeng Jaya, Boru, and Nawakote.
In light of the eruption, residents in the vicinity were told to wear masks to protect themselves against respiratory issues stemming from volcanic ash. The PVMBG urged calmness among the public and compliance with government instructions while cautioning against misinformation regarding the eruption.
Mount Lewotobi Laki is one of two twin volcanoes situated on Flores Island, with extensive volcanic history, having been intermittently active since December 23, 2023, and previously erupting on November 4, 2024, which resulted in the destruction of homes and the loss of at least ten lives.
Following the eruption, flight operations in and out of nearby Bali were significantly affected, with Jetstar announcing the cancellation of several flights on March 21, 2025, due to the ash cloud from Lewotobi's eruption. The airline confirmed that impacted customers were directly notified and provided rebooking options on the next available flights. Virgin Australia also anticipated delays in some of its routes to and from Bali, specifically flights VA45 from Brisbane and VA91 from Melbourne.
The eruption's timing has raised concerns, particularly for travelers headed to the popular tourist destination of Bali, situated more than 1000 kilometers west of the volcano. Nevertheless, as of now, there have been no significant changes to scheduled afternoon flights.
Indonesia's geographic position along the Pacific Ring of Fire contributes to its status as one of the most volcanically active regions in the world, with over 120 active volcanoes across its expansive archipelago. The volcanic activity is a common occurrence, and as the country possesses a rich history of eruptions, including the 2024 event that led to mass evacuations and international flight cancellations.
Despite the recent events, officials remain vigilant, closely monitoring the situation to enhance public safety. The PVMBG's commitment to transparency and constant updates is vital in ensuring that the affected communities remain informed and prepared in the face of nature's unpredictable force.
To summarize, the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki not only poses immediate threats to residents and nearby regions but also significantly disrupts travel and tourism in the surrounding areas, particularly Bali. Authorities continue to prioritize safety, while experts from PVMBG track volcanic activity for any signs of further eruptions to mitigate risks in the future.
